– Fitbit and the BMS-Pfizer Alliance are collaborating on a multi-year effort to accelerate the detection and diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AFib) to reduce the risk of life-threatening events, like stroke.
– The companies will use their combined resources and expertise to help identify and support people at increased risk for AFib, notably those 65+.
The Bristol-Myers Squibb-Pfizer Alliance and Fitbit today announced a multi-year collaboration to help drive timely diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AFib) with the aim of improving earlier detection in individuals at increased risk of stroke. This new effort provides another example of how Fitbit continues to deepen its work with leaders across the healthcare ecosystem and showcases the potential we have to impact the AFib patient journey as well as drive better health outcomes at scale.
Collaboration Details
The companies will use their combined resources and expertise to help identify and support people at increased risk for AFib, notably those 65+. They plan to develop digital programs and educational content that will increase awareness around AFib risk factors, provide support from screening to diagnosis, and offer users with information to guide a productive discussion with their physician. Upon submission and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of the AFib detection software on Fitbit devices, the parties will aim to provide users with appropriate information to help encourage and inform discussions with their physicians.
The Larger Picture on AFib
AFib affects more than 8 million people in the U.S., and some studies suggest that more than 25 percent of people who have the condition find out only after they have a stroke. That’s why Fitbit, with its 24/7 continuous health tracking capabilities and affordable, easy-to-use devices, is uniquely positioned to potentially help identify and support individuals at increased risk for AFib.
Wearable technology has continued to become more integrated in the healthcare landscape as people have recognized the value that 24/7 health tracking can have for people of any age or health status, including those at increased risk for specific conditions. Yet, those who use wearables to track their heart rhythm may lack the education or guidance on what to do with the data gathered from their device.
“Too many people discover that they are suffering from atrial fibrillation only after experiencing a stroke. In fact, some studies suggest that this is true for more than 25 percent of people who have the condition,” said Joseph Eid, M.D., Head of Medical Affairs, Bristol-Myers Squibb. “These efforts with Fitbit exemplify not only our unwavering commitment to addressing the evolving needs of patients with atrial fibrillation, but also our dedication to advancing care by embracing technology as a part of routine clinical practice.”
